Martyrs Park

A Window Into History

Established in 1963 near the intersection of Commerce and Houston Streets, Martyrs Park is a modest 0.6-acre space in downtown Dallas that packs powerful historical significance into its small footprint. It sits just a stone's throw from Dealey Plaza.

Originally called Dealey Annex, the park received its current name in 1991 after scholars and activists campaigned to acknowledge its deep historical importance.

Remembering Lives Lost

The park stands as a solemn reminder of a dark chapter in Dallas history. In 1860, three enslaved Black men - Patrick Jennings, Samuel Smith, and Cato Miller - were lynched near this very spot after being falsely accused of starting fires as part of an alleged slave uprising.

This renaming represents an important step in acknowledging and memorializing these victims of racial violence.

A New Monument to Memory

March 2024 saw the addition of a striking new memorial called "Shadow Lines" to the park. This thoughtfully designed steel sculpture, created by artists Shane Allbritton and Norman Lee, functions like a sundial while bearing the names of those who suffered racially motivated violence in Dallas County between 1853 and 1920.

Before the installation, the grounds received a much-needed cleanup in October 2023, breathing new life into what had long been an overlooked space. The sundial concept creates a contemplative experience as visitors reflect on this difficult but important history.

Getting There Isn't Easy

Despite its historical weight, Martyrs Park isn't the easiest place to visit. It occupies a triangular plot essentially surrounded by highways and railroad tracks.

You'll need to approach via a steep sidewalk from Dealey Plaza, and there's no on-site parking available. The isolated location and absence of typical park amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, or restrooms have kept it relatively unknown to many Dallas residents, even as efforts continue to bring attention to its historical significance.

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Know Before You Go

Feel free to bring your four-legged friends along, as the park is dog-friendly. Note that this remains a rarely visited spot despite being near the popular Dealey Plaza.

The park has faced ongoing maintenance challenges, so you might want to check current conditions if you're planning a dedicated visit to this memorial site rather than just passing through.